Tuesday, March 4, 2008

Kenya Animal Safari; Most Sublime Animal Safari & Tour Park

The landscape in Tsavo is flatter and drier than in Tsavo West, despite the fact that one of Kenya?s largest rivers flows through the middle of the park. The main track through the park follows the Galana River from Tsavo Gate to the Sala gate. The park headquarters, where you can charge and buy smartcards, is at Voi Gate.

Animal Spotting in Tsavo East National Park

Much of the wildlife spotting is concentrated on the Galana River, which cuts a green gush across the dusty orange plains of the park and supports plentiful crocs and hippos. There are several places along the flat topped escarpments lining the river where you can get out of your vehicle, with due caution of course. Most scenic are Lugards Falls, a wonderful landscape of water-sculptured channels, and crocodiles Point, where you may see hippos and crocs.

There are usually armed guards around, but you shouldn?t get too close to the water. Kudus, waterbucks and dik-dik are common along the river banks. Also of interest is the Mudanda Rock, towering over a natural dam near the Manyani gate, which attracts elephants in the dry season.

Large herds of RED elephants

The bush is thinner than in Tsavo West, so wildlife is easier top spot, although it?s not as plentiful. The rolling hills in the south of the park are home to large herds of elephants, usually covered in red dust. The action is concentrated the waterhole at Voi safari lodge, and the Kanderi Swamp, which is home to a profusion of wildlife and the public campsite.

You can expect elephants to stroll through the campsite in the evenings. Further into the park, 30km east of Voi gate is the Aruba Dam built across the Voi River, which also sees loads of wildlife. A lodge has been under construction here for some time.

Your security issues at Tsavo East Park

The area north of the Galana River is dominated by the Yatta Escarpment, a vast prehistoric lava flow. This area has recently been opened up for tourist after a long time closure due to insecurity. Check at the gates the prevailing situation before proceeding here.

Endangered Hirola in Tsavo East animal Park

Until their partial translocation to Tsavo East, the sole surviving population of Hirola antelope was found near Kenya Somalia border in the south Tana River and Garissa districts. Intense poaching (for meat) and habitat destruction have reduced their numbers from an estimated 14,000 in 1976 to a pitiful 450 today, 100 of them being in Tsavo East. There are also around 48 black rhinos, moved here from Nairobi National Park, although how long they last in this hard-to- police sanctuary remains to be seen.

Translocations of elephants to the park

On the positive side, the recent translocation of 400 elephants from the Shimba Hills National Reserve has replenished the populations depleted by poaching, and should herald the start of efforts to rehabilitate the wild northern sector of the park and open it up for tourist activity.

Robert is a travel expert with Landmarksafaris.com. Degreed in tourism management, he has authored more than 1000 articles on Kenya East African travel. Get hooked to the Tsavo National Park here: http://www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/wildlife.php

Labels: , , , , , ,

Friday, February 1, 2008

Baby Shower Idea - Animal Antics On African Safari Crib Bedding At Baby Shower

A baby shower idea that can lead to heart-stopping, imaginary adventures in the African Bush is a set of African Safari baby crib bedding. Imagine how much fun a mom-to-be and her precious baby is going to have exploring all the animal antics brought to life on innovative African Safari baby crib bedding fabrics. It is a worthwhile baby shower idea to team up with a few friends and give a really useful set of baby crib bedding or cot bed bedding.

Equipping a nursery with anything from Bellini baby furniture to Dutailier glider rockers, is an expensive venture. Helping out with a crib bedding set, chosen to coordinate with the baby furniture, will be a much appreciated baby shower idea. If you do a bit of homework, you should know what type of baby nursery theme the parents would enjoy, as well as the color scheme they have in mind.

Wendy Bellissimo Introduces Baby To The Wonders Of The Animal Kingdom

Wendy Bellissimo Petite Safari baby crib bedding is a popular baby shower idea, as she understands the knack of bringing the animal kingdom to life in a colorful way. This baby shower idea would be a welcome change from the over commercialized, very frilly babyish themes sometimes dominating this market.

The Glenna Jean African Safari baby crib bedding set can also be used when planning your baby shower idea, although the colors are more muted and perhaps not the best choice for stimulating a baby. Glenna Jean African Safari crib bedding includes a printed quilt with a sage green border, and is finished in red gingham piping. A cream chenille crib bumper, fitted sheet and dust ruffle completes the set.

If you combine your resources with friends in planning your baby shower idea, you may be able to add accessories such as the window shade, a valance with a palm tree and leopard print, the diaper stacker and the adorable musical mobile with soft elephants and other animal characters.

Also in the running for featuring in an African Safari bedding baby shower idea, is the Kidsline Zanzibar crib bedding set. This 6-piece cot bedding set is enchanting for either a little boy or a little girl. It steers clear of the more common pink or blue baby stuff. The animal antics of this baby shower idea takes place against a backdrop of beige and green. The set has a tranquil, yet warm feel.

The set includes the usual crib bumper, a luxurious quilt, the fitted sheet, a crib skirt, the valance and the diaper stacker. Sensory stimulation has been kept in mind during manufacturing, and a variety of fabric textures have been incorporated in the design. The Kidsline Zanzibar nightlight will become a much used accessory when scary night-time monsters start to make their appearance...

Another African Safari bedding baby shower idea comes from Brandee Danielle. Her On Safari bedding set features a cozy quilt, a soft crib bumper, fitted sheet and crib skirt. Your friends can opt for the hamper, extra fluffy pillows, a lamp shade, a cute mobile, the window valance, or a colorful On Safari wall hanging.

Baby Shower Idea Leads To Monkey Business

Who knew monkeys could be purple and yellow? The Monkey See, Monkey Do baby crib bedding set is another African Safari baby shower idea. This set by Anna Claire Crib Bedding includes a baby quilt, bumper, dust ruffle, and sheet. The bedding set is machine washable. The characters are lovable, vibrant, and lively. Any infant will fall in love these adorable animal friends.

Also take a look at the Kidsline Swazi African Safari baby crib bedding set while weighing your baby shower idea options. This line features colorful, charming characters.

Why not make it an authentic African Safari baby shower theme, with cuddly animal toys as extra baby shower gifts? Use lively African Safari images on the free baby shower invitations. Scour the internet for baby shower games and favors with an African theme.

Just remember: with all these animals let loose in the baby nursery, your African Safari baby shower idea will probably sentence your friend to raising a spirited young adventurer...

Cribs-for-Babies.com - For more information read Wendy Bellissimo Petite Safari 4-Piece Crib Set - So Petite Baby Bedding Safari at Cribs-For-Babies.com - by Rika Susan of Article-Alert.com, where you will discover the number one online legitimate home based business opportunity.

Labels: , , , , ,

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

An African Safari Jao Can Be Described As The Ultimate African Adventure

For a true African adventure, the African Safari of Jao in Botswana is the vacation to book. Jao is known for its high concentration of Lion. It can offer both land and water activities on the river Okavango. This area is known for its predators and, Jao Camp itself, is located on the border of the Moremi Game Reserve.

The camp is on a densely wooded oval shaped island that overlooks the vast flood plains of Botswana. It has incredible habitats and permanent waterways and lagoons. An African safari in Jao is a very memorable safari. The skilled staff at Jao Camp will see to it that all of your needs are met, African style.

The Jao African safari wildlife experience is pure African wildlife at its finest. Chances are good that every wild animal that you want to experience will appear. A Jao African safari experience is the safari of a lifetime.

The Accommodations

Your Jao African safari accommodations will consist of African style luxury rooms. The bedrooms are raised wooden decks above palm carpets, constructed of split bamboo and thatch with canvas walls. Each room also has a ?sala? for midday siestas with a superb view. Each camp can sleep a maximum of 16 people. Each suite includes a flush toilet and basin, shower and an outdoor shower. Underneath a tree canopy of cool thatch you will find the main dining room and pub area. There is a pool and an outdoor boma for dining under the stars. A raised walkway connects the rooms to the dining rooms and lounge areas.

Game Viewing

Your Jao African safari experience offers excellent game drives, mokoro excursions, short guided walks and boating trips. Since Jao Camp is next to the Moremi Game Reserve, night drives are permitted. This allows your African safari Jao trip to include an exclusive view of the nocturnally active animals in the area.

Your Jao African safari will most probably include views of Lion and Leopard in their natural habitats. Tsessebe, Lechwe and Wildebeest roam all over the flood plains. The wildlife appearances in Jao depend mainly on the water levels in the area. But, generally, a diverse group of wild animals will be plentiful on your safari.

The lagoons are the home to the Hippo and Crocodile. The permanent water areas attract large numbers of these two animals. But the King of the Jungle, the Lion, will be a sure thing. The Jao African safari is known for its abundance of Lion sightings. Have your camera in hand and don?t miss this one of a kind jungle experience.
Ann Marier has written articles about African safari trips providing helpful tips and advice. Another favorite topic of hers is camping where she writes about camping gear and equipment

Labels: , , , ,

Thursday, January 24, 2008

Africa Safari: Many Countries, Many Different Types Of Safaris

When you think about Africa, images of savannahs, outstanding landscapes as well as splendid animals must be going through your mind. There may be excitement in the air as you must be anticipating meeting proud ancestral tribes; of course, the main attraction would no doubt be the Africa safari.

A Moving Experience

The Africa safari will move you profoundly as well as spiritually and the exhilaration that you will feel will surely make a new person out of you. An Africa safari is something that you will cherish for long and it will sure to be momentous as well as be the adventure that will be hard to beat in one lifetime.

There are many destinations that beckon you to them for your Africa safari including going to Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia as well as Zimbabwe. You can plan your Africa safari to include one or many of these countries and you can choose to take the safari in a small group, or have a customized private safari. It all depends on your whims and fancies, and of course, your bank balance. In fact, you can choose between an adventure, luxury, private, small group, safari excursion, and a camping safari.

The Africa adventure safari will take you to remote areas in Africa and you can take part in many different activities such as hiking into volcanoes craters, visiting tribes of Bushmen, or canoeing bang next to elephants. The luxury Africa safari will allow you comfort as well as style and you will stay in luxury in intimate camps as well as lodges that are away from the normal tourist spots.

If you think that your Africa safari should be private, then you can take your own professional safari guide and hop on board a private 4x4 safari vehicle and set your own schedule that may vary according to movements of animals. The other option is to go in a small group which should suit single travelers as well as couples, or a bunch of close friends.

You may also want to take a safari excursion which is a short program that include combination safaris such as elephant back safaris, camel safaris, climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, diving, riding on horseback, fishing, staying in estates, taking train rides as well as having a golfing trip.

You can also opt for an Africa safari in the form of camping safaris that will take you deep into the heart of Africa in the wilderness where you may stay in tents with king size beds, or in dome tents. Of course, you will relish the sumptuous food, which alone can make your Africa safari worthwhile.
Ann Marier has written articles about African safari trips providing helpful tips and advice. Another favorite topic of hers is camping where she writes about camping gear and equipment

Labels: , , , , , ,

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Let Safari Decorating Give Your Home An Exotic Ambiance

Safari decorating is an exotic and fun decorating theme which will add an interesting dimension to your home. This style uses earthtones, lush jungle decor, animal prints and natural items to add a unique look that is fun to live with. By having safari theme decorating in your home, you can create an exotic jungle ambiance no matter where your house is.

One thing that can really add to your safari decor is jungle and safari themed accessories and luckily there are many to be found on the market today. Include paintings and knick knacks in your home that reflect an African safari. Zebra print lamps, wall art that reflects lush jungle scenes, potted plants and animal knick knacks will all add to the aura of your safari home.

Getting the right window treatments for your home is a fundamental undertaking since the wrong type can undermine your design style. You should try to purchase curtains, drapes or shutters that are natural. For this style, it could work great to use some jungle print curtains or blinds.

Balance your design with furniture which compliment the general decorating approach. You want to look at acquiring items that are wood and upholstery to enhance Safari decorating. Think about using overstuffed furniture that uses a floral, fern like or animal print fabric. For non upholstered items, try using bamboo or rattan items.

Terrific lights can truly complete the safari decorating so you will need to give some thought to this area. With this kind of decor, you?ll need your lighting to be animal or natural themed. There are many lamps out there that are animal themed as well as plant themed.

There are many great rugs that match well with the safari decorating theme. When picking out colors, stick to animal prints or solids and for type contemplate purchasing shag rugs or even rugs that are shaped and colored like an animal skin. If you want a less busy look on the floor, natural sisal mats could look great.

Updating your home with a safari decorating theme doesn't need to be hard if you pay attention to detail. Simply buy your pieces with care and you are sure to get a designer look without having to hire a designer

Lee Dobbins write for http://100decoratingstyles.com/ where you can learn more about decorating and get tips on other great decorating styles.

Labels: , , , , , ,

Friday, January 11, 2008

Safari Hats: A Glimpse In History

Africa is the region that seems to offer rich collection of culture, resources, places of wonder and scenes of the circle of life. It is more impressive than anyone may ever dream. And as vast as it can get, no one can truly travel the whole of Africa in a month without missing hundreds of sights. One has to live in Africa to be able to see it all.

That being said and other things that can never be mentioned her or elsewhere, it is vital that you would not spoil your African safari adventure by not being comfortable along your journey. This is why, like with most other trips, we have to bring the essentials.

The basics off course are clothes, shoes and the likes. Second to it are the toiletries. The third (and the most important) are the binoculars! After all, what's the sense of going to Africa if you would not be able to witness the dance of life as closer as your advantage may allow?

Well, though we may place this gear at the bottom list, you surely would not want leaving them behind. Well, come to think of it, what more can you do but protect your head and half of your face from the scorching heat of the sun?

Wide brim hats were designed specifically to provide the maximum amount of sun protection without blocking your vision. Your long sleeves and long pants aside, safari hats can complement the functions as contributed by longer safari clothing. These restrict you from freer movement though.

When selecting for a safari hat, please pay attention to the width of the visor. It must atleast be 2 ? inches wide from the side that is nearest to the circumference of your head.

While we have this strong tendency to correlate safari hats with outback, it is good to note that it is actually a version of the Fedora hat. When in doubt, you may try flipping the back of the brim and you'll make a Fedora. In short, safari hats are just fedoras that have their brims turned down.

Since when did this fashion in safari hats occurred, no one truly knows. One theory suggests that when African safaris became a fad at one time in history, people have started bringing home photos of safari adventures that typically feature turned-down-brims safari hats. Later, manufacturers adopted this type of hat which became the normal fashion for all safari guests.


This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on safari & other useful information, please visit http://safari.articlekeep.com

Labels: , , , , , , , ,

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Water Safari Kenya; Top 7 Water Safari Vacations Kenya

1. Tsavo West National Park

This was made famous by the man eaters of Tsavo, the lions that killed hundreds of railway workers in the beginning of the 20th Century. Here you can see most animals, including the ?big five?. This park is situated west of Mombasa and East of Amboseli National Park. This park is a must see in your Kenyan Water safari.

2. Shimba Hills National Reserve

The Shimba hills are also worth a visit. The reserve has a variety of species including Elephant, Giraffe and Buffalo as well as the rare Roan and Sable Antelopes. The forests are home to a number of unusual species including the black and white colobus monkey, Serval cats, Red Duiker and Suni Antelope. An abundance of birdlife is found among the hills, including Honey guides, Turacos, Wood peckers and Sunbirds. Shimba Hills can be done as a day excursion from your Kenyan Water safari on the Kenyan Beach.

The Makupa Market off Mwembe Tayari, is Mombassa?s biggest market, a colourful place featuring a wide range of produce is worth a visit.

Fort Jesus in the Old town built in the 16th Century by the Portuguese is also worth a visit.

3. South Coast of Kenya Beaches

The south Coast of Kenya Beach is famous for its warm, calm, turquoise waters. It is situated south of Mombasa; you have to cross the Likoni Ferry to reach it. All sorts of water sports including deep sea scuba diving, boating, surfing, parasailing, beach parachuting, Hobie skiffs, kayaking, wreck diving are offered. These are very popular sports with Kenya water safari enthusiasts.

North Coast of Kenya Beaches

The North Coast of Kenya beach is the closest beach to Mombasa Island and has an excellent beach for a Kenyan Water safari tour. Most water sports are offered including deep sea scuba diving, big game sport fishing, jetskies, surfing, snorkeling and goggling etc.

4. Watamu Kenya Beach

The 10 km sq Watamu Marine National Park contains unparalleled marine views and it is world-renowned for its deep- sea fishing and other water safari activities. The area features crystal clear warm waters and white sandy beaches.

5. Arabuko Sokoke Forest Wilderness on Kenyan Beaches

Arabuko Sokoke forest wilderness is nestled besides the water safari beaches of Watamu, just minutes from the waters of the Indian Ocean. In this 400sq km reserve there is an untold wealth of natural beauty. The air is filled with butterflies and birds, the trees alive with monkeys and the forest floor home to many mammals.

The forest stretches to the headwaters of the mighty Sabaki River, and occasionally herds of elephant pass through the forest en route to the river.

This rich forest once hid another secret. The 13th century Swahili town of Gede thrived here for hundreds of years, hidden away from Portuguese sailors and the influence of the outside world. The town was eventually deserted, and today the ruins of Gede, lying among the trees and twisting vines of the forests are a haunting reminder of the past?

6. The Tana Delta

The Tana delta is a place of spectacular panoramic views, encompassing a scrub land teeming with game and birds and the endless rolling sands of deserted beaches. Here you can experience the best of both worlds of a Kenyan water safari, spending the morning exploring a river filled with hippos and crocodiles by canoe, and swimming in the blue waters of the Indian Ocean in the afternoon.

7. Taita & Chyulu Hills

Spanning the vast plains of Tsavo, and lying within view of majestic Mt. Kilimanjaro, are the Taita and Chyulu hills. This is a paradise of elephant herds, plains game, cheetah, remote Maasai villages and wonderful views of Mt. Kilimanjaro. This is a breath taking escape from the beach in your water safari in Kenya.

Close to Tsavo East, the nearby Taita Hills are home to a private game sanctuary, with a wide variety of game including Lion, Cheetah, Elephant and plains game. Prolific bird life includes the extremely rare Taita Falcon, a Bird recorded in early Egyptian hieroglyphics. The Taita are in fact three groups of Hills, the Dabida, Sagalla and Kasigau.

Robert Muhoho is a tour consultant with Landmark Safaris. He is degreed in tourism and hospitality management and author to 500 Kenya tour articles. For free Kenya water safari info visit them @ www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/beach.php

Labels: , , , , ,

Monday, November 19, 2007

Botswana Safaries

From the massive, dry desert of the Kalahari to the splendid Okavango delta, a maze of waterways coursing through the desert sands ? Botswana safaris offer you a breathtaking contrast that will be a feast for your senses, bored and tired of the sameness and uniformity around them.

Here is a brief sketch of some top destinations:

The 10,600-acre Khama Rhino Sanctuary was set up in 1993 to rescue the vanishing white rhino. Beginning with only four, the rhino population has now swelled to nearly 20. Plans are afoot for the introduction of the nearly extinct black rhino to the sanctuary as well. It is run by a community trust involving locals from the area. The entrance fee with a vehicle is only $5, and contributions from visitors keep it going. For accommodation, there is the Mokongwa Camp or the Boma camp offering various facilities at suitable prices.

Chobe National Park has an area of 4,079 square miles just over the borders with Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is also a picture of contrasts - from a lush river region in the north to the dry bush land in the south. About 45,000 elephants have made it their home. If you can ensure that you are not trampled by any one of them, then try fishing too. You will find more than 90 species, including the mighty tiger fish. And remember, the big cats rule here as well. Accommodation is no problem: Chobe Safari Lodge is moderately priced and comfortable.

What was a lake millions of years ago is now the Nxai National Park, covering 2,787 square miles of arid basin that goes from a strangely desolate yet inviting dust bowl in winter to a shallow, wet wonderland when it rains in summer. When the weather is wet, flamingos, wildebeests, and zebras (and inevitably their predators too) can be spotted migrating here in the thousands. For accommodation, Planet Baobab is there for your comfort.

The Mashatu Game reserve, occupying over 100,000 acres, is the largest privately owned wildlife area in Botswana, and part of the Northern Tuli Game Reserve. Apart from lions, leopards, zebras, kudu, elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, and hyenas, it also offers you riverbeds full of baboons, ancient archaeological sites and splendid sandstone dikes!

For accommodation, although known as an expensive spot, Mashatu Main Camp is quite reasonable compared to most Botswana lodges.

The 1,881-square-mile Moremi Wildlife Reserve is located on the magnificent Okavango delta. More than 300 bird species teem in the delta's massive maze of inlets and islands, in addition to the hippos, crocodiles, elephants passing through, and lily pads that appear to stretch on forever. Avoid the summer-wet season if you can, as there would be too much water for the traditional ?mokoro? (a type of canoe) ride at that time of the year. Make yourself comfortable at the Audi camp, which offers extremely moderate rates and plenty of attractions.

Botswana safaris are available in various types. The three main ones are mobile safaris, luxury honeymoon safaris and fly-in safaris. In mobile safaris 4x4 vehicles are usually pressed into service to cover larger areas or a variety of different habitats in a single trip. Luxury honeymoon safaris are for the romantic couples who want to spend time sipping champagne on a private terrace while gazing out over the vast plains of Botswana. Fly-in safaris utilize top luxury safari camps in high-density game areas like the Okavango delta.

Botswana provides detailed information on Botswana, Botswana Safaries, Botswana Culture, Botswana Agate and more. Botswana is affliated with African Safari Vacations

Labels: , , , , ,

Monday, October 22, 2007

Discover The Canadian Paddling Safari On the Grand River... One Hour West of Toronto

Canoe, kayak or raft trip the Grand River to experience sightings of Canadian wildlife within an hour drive of Toronto. Seeing the returned presence of species once gone from the valley has become the highlight of an evening paddle on the Grand River.

The Carolinian Forest along the shores of the Grand River has the largest diversity of plants and wildlife in Canada. The best way to see wildlife is with a quiet evening drift on the river. Having a guide knowledgeable of where to look increases the opportunity of observing animals and birds. Once trained on where to look and how to distinguish shapes, amazes everyone.

Creatures absent twenty years ago are being sighted... even the locals are in disbelief. The bald eagle is back, the fishing ospreys are nesting and the extinct turkeys abound. There are snarling possums, random sleek otters and an abundance of beaver. Fish populations have changed with the migration of steelhead trout and increase in smallmouth bass. As the varieties of species in the food chain expand, there is an increase response from the predators above.

There is also the regular wildlife to view. In the sky soar the huge turkey vultures, the echoing geese and chattering kingfishers. The whitetail deer populations are abundant in the valley and often visible along the river in the evening and early spring. On moonlight paddles there are coyotes howling, horned owls hooting and large blue herons croaking. There are mink fishing, raccoons washing clams and a choir of frogs and toads to hear.

Traveling in the middle of the river allows minimum disturbance to observe wildlife. Rafts are an excellent vehicle for families and non-water people to safely travel in. There is presently one company offering guided evening paddles on a regular schedule in the Grand River valley. It is called the Grand River Rafting Company and is based in the Paris/ Brantford area. They offer guided evening services with canoes, kayaks and rafts. There are even platform raft drifts with deckchairs for those wishing to sit and observe. The trips are 2 to 3 hours in length and are designed to fit the busy travelers' time frame.

For visitors from Europe, Asia and around the world, the nearness of this wilderness to Toronto is an excellent opportunity to experience a piece of Canadian outdoors. The Grand River is one hour from the Toronto Airport and 10 minutes off the 403 Highway. There are hotels, B&B's and campsites for individuals and couples, just fifteen minutes away from the river. There is also a family/group Bed & Breakfast called River Ridge which can accommodate up to 12 visiting people. There are nearby restaurants, fast food and grocery stores to satisfy the appetite of anyone.

The Grand River is nature's safari route through the wilderness of Southern Ontario. A guided paddle through this Carolinian forest is worth the visit. It is just a short distance from Toronto with a maximum Canadian wildlife experience for all.

Garth Pottruff's Grand River Rafting Company not only does rafting, but exclusive guided canoe and kayak trips on the Grand River in Paris, Ontario. He offers evening paddles and moonlight for the opportunity to view wildlife.He has watched the Grand River make a comeback from an almost dead river to a thriving wildlife community. For trip info click: http://www.grandriverrafting.ca

Labels: , , , ,

Thursday, August 30, 2007

African Safari Adventure

In the remote eastern corner of Botswana, at the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers, lies an area known historically as the Tuli enclave - a diverse wilderness of savannah, riverine forests, marshland, open plains and sandstone outcrops. The reserve name is derived from the magnificent Mashatu trees, which are prevalent throughout this immense tract of privately owned land. Mashatu is also the home to no less than seven of Africas giants: the African elephant, the lion, the giraffe, the baobab tree, the eland, the ostrich, and the kori bustard. It is fitting therefore, that some 75,000 acres/30,000 hectares of pristine game land be set aside for these unique, prodigious features of this exhilarating continent.

In the remote eastern corner of Botswana, at the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers, lies an area known historically as the Tuli enclave - a diverse wilderness of savannah, riverine forests, marshland, open plains and sandstone outcrops. The reserve name is derived from the magnificent Mashatu trees, which are prevalent throughout this immense tract of privately owned land. Mashatu is also the home to no less than seven of Africas giants: the African elephant, the lion, the giraffe, the baobab tree, the eland, the ostrich, and the kori bustard. It is fitting therefore, that some 75,000 acres/30,000 hectares of pristine game land be set aside for these unique, prodigious features of this exhilarating continent.

Its here that you will experience a unique and spectacular safari experience and many would argue that you have not lived until you have cycled in the Land of the Giants!

Head out early morning and late afternoon - push yourself to your physical limits on ancient elephant-trodden pathways, over rough gravel, and through cool streams of water. In a land as diverse as Mashatu, you are guaranteed new mediums and trails around every corner. The panoramic vistas are enhanced ten-fold as your adrenalin courses through your veins.

Your safety is secured in the hands of the armed rangers who head-and-tail the team of cyclists and who remain in radio contact with a support vehicle which travels a close distance behind (and out of earshot of) the cyclists at all times.

Mashatu Game Reserve, an area of history and legend, offers some of the most exciting game viewing in Africa. It is a place of exceptional beauty where one can explore the rugged, unspoiled African landscapes guided by experienced rangers and trackers. In addition to the game experience, Mashatu offers a view of Africa, unchanged since the days of early visitors such as Kipling, Selous and artist/explorer Sir Thomas Baines. Historic and archeological sites abound; notable are the Motloutse Ruins and the Pitsani Koppie sites.

The excitement of Mashatu has not changed over time. It is still home to large herds of elephant, prides of lion and cheetah. Along the river courses, huge Mashatu trees provide shade for eland, impala, wildebeest, giraffe and zebra, whilst at night, the bat eared fox, African wild cat and the magnificent leopard search for prey. Some 350 species of birds may be seen. Mashatu Game Reserve proudly provides a refuge for the largest single population of elephant on privately-owned land in Africa. Known as the relic herds of Shashe, these elephants are the last living testament to the great herds that once populated the meandering Limpopo valley. Today the population on Mashatu Game Reserve alone, is estimated to number in excess of 700.

The wildlife experience at Mashatu is personalized. Dedicated and experienced Tswana rangers and trackers are keen to show you their world. The Cycle Teams set out at dawn and again at dusk in search of the diverse variety of fauna and flora which abound throughout the reserve.

The richness of the Mashatu experience has been considerably enhanced with the continuous development of new adventure activities, like the unique Cycle Safari. The bush may now be enjoyed from the added vantage points of mountain bike and on foot.

Whether you visit Mashatu for the excitement of the big game viewing, the relaxation of unspoilt Africa, the adrenalin of adventure in the wild or to simply experience a pace of life that beats to the rhythm of a different drum your Safari Expedition will change your life!

Contact TerraSea Travel & Tours for your next adventure: 1-800-403-8488
www.terrasea.net; E-mail: info@terrasea.net

Home Travel Agent: Will I Be Able To Live On My Home-Based Travel Agent Salary?Tim Bruxvoort

Does travel to places like Fiji, Rome, Italy, Hong Kong, Bora Bora, Paris, London, and Australia sound like something you want to do? Would you like to stroll on secluded beaches, dine in quaint little restaurants, or wander around in ancient castles? If so, becoming a travel agent may be a good choice for you.

But can you really make decent money being a travel agent? Is there a future in it?

According to the United States Department of Labor, "Industry consolidation and increasing use of the Internet to book travel will result in a decline in the employment of travel agents. The Internet increasingly allows people to access travel information from their personal computers, enabling them to research and plan their own trips, make their own reservations and travel arrangements, and purchase their own tickets."

So as the need for travel agents declines, so too will their salaries. And salaries of travel agents are already low. The United States Department of Labor, says that the "Median annual earnings of travel agents were $26,630 in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $20,800 and $33,580. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $16,530, while the top 10 percent earned more than $41,660."

So if you had years worth of experience the best you would do is around $40,000 U.S. a year, which is very well likely to decline. And more likely you would only be earning $25K or less as a travel agent. That's not a very attractive salary for most people.

So if you become a travel agent you'll have the benefits of huge discounts on travel, but you won't likely be making money enough to afford to travel. In fact, you'll barely have enough to cover living expenses.

So does that mean you should look for another more profitable occupation?

There is a solution so you can still become a travel agent. The best way is to become a travel agent is with one of the new travel-based network marketing organizations. You become a travel agent of one of these travel companies and you get all the benefits of being a travel agent.

You still make money on travel commissions, but you also make money by helping other people become their own travel agents. This enables you to make way more than you could as an ordinary travel agent. In fact, if you do it right, you can make as much in a month as many travel agents make in a year.

With the trend moving towards people making their own travel plans, you're just helping them do what they are going to do anyway. Everyone wins! And you get to see the world in style!


Tim Bruxvoort is the Internets Foremost Home-Based Business and Success Coach who helps people create successful and profitable lives in their own home-based businesses. You can visit his website at www.homebasedriches.com . If you are interested in becoming a travel agent, go to www.times10travel.com for a free report.

Labels: , , , , , , ,